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Refreshing Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe for Every Occasion

If you’re looking for a light, delicious meal that’s easy to make and full of fresh flavors, Tomato Basil Pasta is the perfect option. This classic pasta dish combines juicy, ripe tomatoes with fragrant basil and a simple garlic-infused olive oil sauce. It’s a simple recipe that highlights the fresh ingredients and is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner, Tomato Basil Pasta is a satisfying and vibrant choice.

At Green Gourmet, we’ll show you how to create this fresh and flavorful Tomato Basil Pasta, share tips to make it even more delicious, and answer FAQs to help you enjoy this easy Italian-inspired dish at home.

Why Tomato Basil Pasta is a Great Choice

Tomato Basil Pasta is loved for its simplicity and fresh flavors. Here’s why it’s such a popular dish:

Light and Healthy: With fresh tomatoes, basil, and a light olive oil sauce, this pasta dish is naturally low in calories while still being flavorful and satisfying.
Quick and Easy to Make: This dish can be ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a last-minute meal.
Vibrant and Fresh: The combination of sweet, juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil creates a fresh, bright flavor that’s perfect for warm weather or when you want a light meal.
Customizable: You can easily add extra vegetables, proteins, or cheese to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Naturally Vegetarian and Vegan: This pasta is naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan by simply omitting any cheese.

How to Make Tomato Basil Pasta

Ingredients:

12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 3 large tomatoes, chopped)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: grated Parmesan or vegan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta: Boil a big pot of water with salt until it reaches a rolling boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.
Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they begin to soften and release their juices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Mix everything thoroughly until the pasta is fully coated with the tomato sauce. Take the pan off the heat and gently fold in the fresh basil leaves.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate the pasta and top with optional grated Parmesan or vegan cheese and red pepper flakes for a bit of spice. Serve immediately while warm.

Nutritional Information for Tomato Basil Pasta

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving of Tomato Basil Pasta (without cheese):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350 kcal
Protein (g)	10 g
Fat (g)	14 g
Carbohydrates (g)	48 g
Fiber (g)	4 g
Vitamin C	25 mg (30%)
Potassium	500 mg (14%)
Iron	2 mg (11%)

Benefits of Tomato Basil Pasta

Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C, which help protect your body from free radicals.
Heart-Healthy: The olive oil used in this recipe provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol and reduce inflammation.
Light and Satisfying: This dish is filling without being heavy, making it perfect for a light dinner or lunch.
Packed with Fresh Flavors: The combination of fresh tomatoes and basil creates a vibrant and refreshing flavor, perfect for any time of the year.
Naturally Vegan and Gluten-Free (with gluten-free pasta): By using gluten-free pasta, this dish can easily be adapted for gluten-free diets while remaining naturally vegan.

FAQs About Tomato Basil Pasta

Q1: What’s the best type of pasta for this dish?

Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine works great for this recipe, but you can use any pasta you have on hand, including gluten-free options.

Q2: Can I add more vegetables or proteins to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option.

Q3: How can I make the sauce richer without using cream?

To make the sauce richer, you can add a splash of reserved pasta water while tossing the pasta and sauce together. You could also blend a few of the cooked tomatoes into the sauce for extra thickness and flavor.

Q4 What can I use instead of fresh basil?

If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil or substitute it with other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about 1/3 of the amount.

Q5: How can I make this dish spicier?

For a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the olive oil when sautéing the garlic, or sprinkle some on top when serving.

Q6: Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare this pasta for meal prep by making a big batch and storing it in portioned containers. It reheats well and makes for a convenient lunch or dinner.

Conclusion

Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together fresh, flavorful ingredients in a quick and easy recipe. With its vibrant combination of tomatoes, basil, and garlic, this pasta is perfect for a light, satisfying meal any time of the year. Looking for a fresh, healthy dinner option? Try this Tomato Basil Pasta for a classic Italian-inspired dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy!